Interactions

Interactions with Drugs

Lentinan may interfere with the way the body processes certain drugs using the liver's "cytochrome P450" enzyme system. As a result, the levels of these drugs may be increased in the blood and may cause increased effects or potentially serious adverse reactions. Patients using any medications should check the package insert and speak with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, about possible interactions.

For wound healing after surgery, evidence suggests beta- glucans may reduce inflammation and speed the repair of surgical wounds. Severe gastrointestinal damage has been associated with intake of beta- glucan and most non- steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) and aspirin. Caution is advised.

Preliminary study suggests that a BCNU/ beta- glucan combination may help to improve current chemotherapy treatment efficacy.

Barley may lower blood sugar levels. Beta- glucan from other sources may alter blood glucose levels. Caution is advised when using medications that may also lower blood sugar. Patients taking drugs for diabetes by mouth or insulin should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare provider. Medication adjustments may be necessary.

Beta- glucan- containing sources have been used to treat hyperlipidemia and may act additively with other cholesterol- lowering agents.

Although not well studied in humans, beta- glucan may alter blood pressure. Caution is advised in patients with low blood pressure or taking medications for high blood pressure. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, before combining therapies.

Hordenine, a chemical in the root of germinating barley, is a sympathomimetic and combination use may theoretically result in additive effects. Sympathomimetic effects include increased heart rate, sweating, and increased blood pressure. Check with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, before combining therapies.

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

Lentinan may interfere with the way the body processes certain herbs or supplements using the liver's "cytochrome P450" enzyme system. As a result, the levels of other herbs or supplements may become too high in the blood. It may also alter the effects that other herbs or supplements possibly have on the P450 system.

Beta- glucan- containing sources have been used to treat hyperlipidemia and may act additively with other cholesterol- lowering herbs and supplements, such as red yeast rice. The cholesterol- lowering effects of beta- glucan may increase when taken with plant stanol esters.

Beta- glucan may reduce inflammation and speed the repair of surgical wounds. Severe gastrointestinal damage has been associated with intake of beta- glucan and most non- steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or aspirin. Caution is advised when taking anti- inflammatory herbs and supplements in combination with beta- glucan.

Barley may lower blood sugar levels. Beta- glucan from other sources may alter blood glucose levels. Caution is advised when using herbs or supplements that may also lower blood sugar. Blood glucose levels may require monitoring, and doses may need adjustment.

Fiber may affect the absorption of other oral agents by reducing gastrointestinal transit time.

Although not well studied in humans, beta- glucan may alter blood pressure. Caution is advised in patients taking herbs or supplements for high blood pressure or those with low blood pressure. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, before combining therapies.

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